FG-LM-01 LOADMASTER

Image: A Mercenary in high-tech armor directs military vehicles into the bay of a large spaceplane.
A Merc (left) performing Loadmaster duties aboard an Anvil Valkyrie. Photo Credit: MercsLife

WHAT

A loadmaster is a military fleet-crew member who is responsible for the loading and unloading of cargo and passengers on spacecraft. They also ensure the safety of cargo and comfort of passengers during flight.

Benefits of a dedicated loadmaster

WHEN

Any Pre-, In-, and Post-flight operations where cargo or passengers are present. In a single-person craft, the captain is also the loadmaster among all other duties. In a larger vessel, one person is delegated the role and responsibility during mission briefing.

WHERE

Aboard spacecraft with moveable cargo or where passengers are present. Movable cargo may include Mission Boxes, Sub-SCU containers, Vehicles, etc. Passengers are non-crew personnel present on the spacecraft such as Infantry being ferried to a destination, military/org personnel on route to posts, VIPs, or civilians.

WHY

The Loadmaster makes sure that vehicles and equipment are loaded safely and efficiently. From deciding which vehicles or cargo are in/out first, to where and how vehicles are arranged and packed, to ensuring access to the vehicles is maintained in tight cargo holds.

The battlefield is rapidly changing, and because speed of operations are of utmost importance, a loadmaster is vital in orchestrating shipboard cargo and passenger utilization.

Flight characteristics of the ship may be disastrously affected by weight distribution and shifting of unsecured cargo, it is vital to ensure proper loading.

Loadmasters are responsible for the efficient and compact storage of mission boxes, small cargo containers, and other equipment. This is important to maintain ease of movement, mission safety, and readiness of mission-vital equipment throughout the craft.

In the cargo bay, the loadmaster's authority is paramount to maintain the safety of the spacecraft.

HOW

Responsible for:

Further Reading